The presence of bad breath (clinically labeled as halitosis) is not necessarily uncommon at any age, including childhood years. Food intake, improper or insufficient dental hygiene and internal health are all factors that can affect a child’s breath. However, chronic bad breath in children may be a sign of more serious health issues and should be addressed by a qualified medical professional to assess the child’s overall health.

Causes of Bad Breath in Children

Common causes of bad breath in children are generally due to improper or insufficient dental hygiene that can leave food residue in the mouth area, such as between teeth or on the back of the tongue. Tooth decay and gum disease can also contribute to bad breath, as can oral fungus infections and chronic dry mouth conditions. Non-oral causes may include gastric dysfunctions, respiratory problems that cause excessive mucous in the mouth and organ dysfunctions of the liver and kidneys.

Proper Oral Hygiene

Most cases of episodic halitosis can be addressed by brushing and rinsing after each meal. This will remove the majority of food particles and will prevent bacteria buildup that often leads to bad breath in children. Brushing of the tongue will also prevent the buildup of food residue and bacteria in the mouth. Antiseptic mouthwash may also be included in a regimen of proper oral hygiene, or a substitute of lemon juice mixed in water may be used instead of mouthwash. Flossing of the teeth at least once a day can also prevent bad breath in children.

Organic Components for Bad Breath in Children

The intake of certain herbs and plants may be helpful with episodic halitosis. Black and green teas are thought to contain polyphenols that fight bacterial growth, which leads to decay and also produces malodorous compounds such as hydrogen sulfide. Crunch foods such as carrots, apples and celery can help to dislodge food particles in the teeth and gums that will lead to bad breath in children. Herbs can be chewed for temporary freshening of the mouth, such as rosemary, parsley, spearmint, or tarragon.

Oral Dryness and Bad Breath in Children

The lack of sufficient saliva in a child’s mouth can also cause episodic bad breath in children. The purpose of saliva is to keep the oral areas free of food residue and other debris that can adhere to teeth, gums and the tongue. Keeping the body sufficiently hydrated aids in maintaining correct levels of saliva at all times. This is generally considered to be reliant on water, as opposed to soft drinks or other manufactured beverages. Sugar-free gums and candies may also be used to maintain sufficient levels of saliva in the mouth.

Foods That Can Cause Bad Breath in Children

Certain types of foods, spices and condiments have natural odiferous traits that will cause episodic bad breath in children. Garlic, onions and certain spices such as oregano and curry will naturally cause temporary bad breath. Certain condiments that are often used may also contribute to bad breath in children, including mayonnaise and ketchup. Caffeine-based beverages are also thought to produce bad breath, such as many soft drinks and coffee.

Home remedies for Bad Breath (Halitosis)

Photo Credit:Karloswayne Photography